"The first victory we can claim is that our hearts are free of hatred. Hence we say to those who persecute us and who try to dominate us: ‘You are my brother. I do not hate you, but you are not going to dominate me by fear. I do not wish to impose my truth, nor do I wish you to impose yours on me. We are going to seek the truth together’. THIS IS THE LIBERATION WHICH WE ARE PROCLAIMING."
Oswaldo José Payá Sardiñas (2002)

Venezuelan Protests: human rights at risk, people at risk

Sign this petition to call on the
Venezuelan government to investigate and prevent further human rights
violations and abuses in the context of protests and open a dialogue
with all parties to find an agreed solution.

Since the beginning of February 2014,
Venezuela has been shaken up by violence triggered by demonstrations
against and in favour of the government. The unrest has already resulted
in the death of over 37 people, including at least six members of the
security forces. More than 500 people have been injured and over 2,000
have been detained. Most people arrested have been conditionally
released pending investigations but they face charges that could lead to
years in prison.

There are indications of excessive use
of force by the security forces, as well as reports of violence by
armed pro government groups and by anti government protesters. Some
detainees have reported ill-treatment and torture.

Over the last decade, Venezuelan
society has been increasingly divided by polarization. The current
political crisis risks undermining any progress made in recent years in
standing up for the rights of those most marginalized in the country.
This must be a wake-up call for the government.

The answer to this crisis is the
unconditional respect for the human rights, and the strengthening of the
institutions that underpin the rule of law. The time to act is now.